What is “Appraisal” in a Car Accident Property Damage Dispute?
If you’ve been in a car accident, you may have heard your insurance company talk about an “appraisal” of your vehicle. This is a standard part of the process when there is property damage and the insurance company accepts responsibility. The appraisal is their way of determining how much it will cost to repair or replace your car.
How the Appraisal Process Works
Typically, after you report your accident and your insurance company accepts liability, they will send an appraiser to inspect your vehicle. You might see this with companies like Progressive or State Farm, who often send someone directly to the scene, your storage facility, or the repair shop. The appraiser examines your car for visible damage, documents the condition, and estimates the cost to repair it. They may also consider whether your car is a total loss, meaning the cost to repair exceeds the car’s actual cash value.
It’s important to know that the insurance company’s appraisal is not binding. Just because they tell you your car is worth a certain amount doesn’t mean you have to accept it. Their goal is to protect their bottom line, not necessarily to ensure you receive the full value of your vehicle.
How to Challenge an Appraisal
If you disagree with the insurance company’s appraisal, there are several ways to challenge it:
Independent Estimates: You can get your own estimates from reputable sources like Kelley Blue Book or Edmunds for the same make, model, year, and mileage of your vehicle.
Repair Shop Estimates: Mechanics or auto body shops can provide detailed repair cost estimates, which may differ from the insurance company’s appraisal.
Attorney Assistance: An experienced car accident attorney can review the appraisal, identify undervalued items, and help you negotiate a higher settlement.
Even if your insurance company has already provided a final offer, you are not obligated to accept it. Many times, proper documentation and professional support can significantly increase the payout you receive for your vehicle.
Why You Need an Attorney
Car accident property damage disputes may seem simple, but insurance companies often try to undervalue claims. An attorney can help you:
Understand your rights regarding property damage
Gather evidence to challenge low appraisals
Maximize your compensation for repair or replacement costs
If you accept the insurance company’s appraisal without question, you may leave money on the table. Having an attorney review your case ensures that you receive the full value your vehicle deserves after an accident.
